4 Things You Need To Stop Doing If You Have 4a/4b/4c Curly Hair

Hello My Sage Besties! For all my followers who have been blessed with curls, coils, and tender textured hair this post is for you! What you stop doing that is detrimental to your hair is just as important as what you start doing to nourish and make your hair happy on a daily basis. Keep reading to find out the four things I stopped doing that helped my curly hair be healthier, happier, and easier to manage.

I stopped using a towel to dry my hair!

Curly hair is most fragile when it is wet, and it’s always best to avoid excess or unnecessary tension and friction on wet curly hair. In order to make the drying process a kinder, gentler experience I stopped using a traditional terry cloth towel when I get out of the shower. Let’s talk about the cotton t-shirt hack! I use a simple white cotton mens undershirt to dry my hair. I buy them at Target, they are 100% cotton, super-affordable, and they gently absorb water without pulling on my hair too much. They are also easier to tie into a turban and keep my wet hair out of my face. True Story.

I stopped using a comb on my hair

(Finger Detangling Is The New Black!)

For those of us born and blessed with curly hair, actual combs and brushes can have us trapped in a hate-hate relationship with our hair. I have many memories, as I am sure many of you do as well, of the pain of your mom detangling your hair with a comb or brush. I have found that detangling with only my fingers has allowed me to better see and understand my curl pattern and be aware of split ends before they morph into full on breakage. Before I get into the shower I part my hair into six sections, and using a mix of of Argan Oil and whatever my current favorite deep condition is, then I slowly detangle each section using only my fingers to gently separate my curls. It takes a little more time but it’s better for your hair, and I have to admit the process can be very relaxing and zen. In a unique way it teaches you to stop fighting your hair.

I stopped neglecting my scalp! Nurture and exfoliate the base!

Having healthy hair starts with a having a healthy scalp. Where else does healthy hair come from? The same way your skin benefits from regular exfoliation which helps your products penetrate more effectively, stimulate circulation, and remove surface building; your scalp can also live its best life if you incorporate a clarifying/exfoliating shampoo into your wash routine to remove excess buildup and improve growth. I currently use the SheaMoisture African Water Mint & Ginger Detox & Refresh Shampoo. It is amazing for exfoliating and soothing the scalp.

Photo Credit: Target.Com

I stopped using traditional shampoo! Bye Bye Sulfates

When looking for a an effective shampoo for Type 4 hair be sure to check labels and stay away from sulfates. Although the sudsy and bubbles feel good, sulfates can actually strip your hair of its natural moisture. I currently only use sulfate free shampoo. If you also suffer from a dry scalp and dry hair, then trying using a co-wash to gentle cleanse your hair. I am currently loving the Madam CJ Walker Ultra-Moisturizing Co-Wash as part of my weekly wash routine.

If you would like to read more curly hair tips please leave a comment below or drop me a comment with your curly hair concerns on my social media @sagebeautyblog!